Wednesday, November 19, 2014

Interview with Marc Bennetts, author of Kicking the Kremlin

What
did you learn through writing this book?

I
discovered how deep the divisions are in Russian society between
those who support Putin’s rule and those who are against him. But I
also learned that while Putin’s supporters are mainly passive, his
foes are extremely active and committed. All of which could prove
vital if the opposition movement ever manages to seriously challenge
his long rule again.

What
message do you want to get out to people about it?

Russia’s
anti-Putin movement was championed by the West. But few took the time
to examine the movement, which was made of very disparate groups,
from the far-left to the far-right. While many in the West would like
to see Putin toppled, it’s far from certain what ruler would emerge
to take his place.

What's
been the response to the book?

It’s
had some great reviews. My favourite was in the Times of London
Literary Supplement, by John Lloyd, the director of journalism at the
Reuters Institute. It was good to have the book praised by such a
qualified person. It’s also just been released in Poland, which I’m
very pleased about. On the downside, pro-Putin supporters have
included me on their list of Russophobes.” Which is laughable. I
mean, I’ve been living in Russia for 15 years and have a Russian
wife and daughter. Hardly Russophobe material. But “Russophobe”
for these people means you are willing to speak to Putin’s
opponents, I guess.

Anything
else you'd like to say?

I’ve
also just released an ebook on Russia’s long-time obsession with
the occult. From Kremlin-backed psychics to urban witches and
wizards, Russians have been fascinated with the paranormal and the
occult since the collapse of the Soviet Union. The book’s called
“Resurrections for Roubles: Adventures with Modern Russia’s
Psychics, Sects and Sorcerers” and is available on amazon.